Robin M. Billups

I attribute my success to the foundation my mother gave me, particularly her emphasis on authenticity, confidence, resilience and staying true to myself. She taught me and my siblings to own who we are and to have the confidence to move forward even when doing so is uncomfortable. I have also been fortunate to have mentors such as Larry Rossi, Jerry Thol and Larry Morgan, who encouraged me to step into opportunities where I was learning something new. Their guidance reinforced my belief that I do not have to know everything before accepting an opportunity. I can acknowledge what I do not know, seek support, learn and continue moving forward.

One of the principles that has guided my career is, “Don’t chase the money.” Instead, I believe in becoming highly skilled, asking questions, staying curious and developing capabilities that have lasting value. My career has shown me that the most valuable opportunities are often the ones that require me to learn something new. When I transitioned from lending into supplier diversity, I entered unfamiliar territory and had to learn how to create programs centered on supply-chain inclusion. Rather than seeing that change as a setback, I viewed it as an opportunity to expand my capabilities and create new value.

I also believe strongly in developing people according to their potential. High-potential employees should be treated like thoroughbreds, not mules. Talented people need the resources, encouragement and opportunities necessary to perform at their highest level.

I would encourage young women to stay curious, develop skills that have lasting value and never allow the fear of not knowing everything to prevent them from accepting an opportunity. You do not have to walk into a room with every answer. Sometimes confidence means being honest about what you do not know and having the courage to learn.

I would also encourage young women to be authentic and comfortable being themselves, even when they are the only person who looks or thinks like them in the room. My own experiences taught me how to navigate unfamiliar environments and become comfortable being “the only one.” Every new experience is an opportunity to build skills, relationships and confidence. Most importantly, share what you learn with others. Your success becomes more meaningful when your knowledge and experience help create opportunities for someone else.

The opportunity is in continuing to build meaningful connections between businesses, public and private-sector organizations, and diverse suppliers. There is significant potential to use strategic relationships, supply-chain inclusion and innovative approaches to create procurement opportunities and accelerate economic growth.

I also see an opportunity in embracing change rather than being limited by traditional career paths. My own transition from commercial real estate lending into supplier diversity demonstrated how entering a new area can create opportunities to develop new skills and bring existing expertise into an entirely different context. I believe professionals and organizations can create greater value when they remain open to learning, collaboration and new ways of approaching challenges.

Authenticity, confidence, resilience, curiosity, service and transparency are important values in both my professional and personal life. I believe in remaining true to who I am, being honest about what I know and do not know, and having the courage to continue learning.

I also value relationships, mentorship and giving back. I believe people who have gained knowledge and experience have a responsibility to share it rather than keep it to themselves. For me, leadership is not simply about personal accomplishment; it is about opening doors, sharing information and helping others understand what is possible.